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The Venetian fortresses of Crete still guard harbours, hilltops and remote islands across the coast. Some have become city landmarks, while others require a boat journey or a steep walk to reach their walls. This guide covers their history, the best fortresses to visit and how to include them in a trip around Crete.
Arkadi Monastery is one of the most important historical and religious sites in Crete. Its peaceful courtyard and Renaissance church stand at the centre of a story shaped by learning, resistance and the events of 1866. This guide covers the history of Moni Arkadiou, what to see and how to plan a visit from Rethymno.
Chania Venetian Harbour is the historic and social centre of western Crete’s best-known city. Its waterfront brings together a Venetian lighthouse, Ottoman architecture, old shipyards and narrow streets shaped by centuries of trade. This guide explains what to see, where to walk and how to experience Chania Old Town beyond its busiest promenade.
Spinalonga is one of Crete’s most affecting historical sites, a small fortified island shaped by war, trade, displacement and isolation. Its Venetian walls surround the remains of an Ottoman settlement and the community created by people sent there during its years as a leper colony. This guide explains the history of Spinalonga Island, how tickets work and the best ways to reach it by boat.
A Crete jeep safari turns one holiday day into a proper off-road expedition, climbing from the coast into gorges, plateaus and mountain villages. This guide breaks down the main routes, what they cost, the best time to go, and how to choose between shared and private tours. Read it before you book and the day will match the trip you actually want.
Crete is large enough that the best day trips in Crete range from pink-sand beaches to Europe's longest gorge and a former island fortress. This guide sorts the leading options by type, effort and travel time, so you can match a trip to your base and your energy. You will find practical notes on ferries, driving, seasons and costs, plus honest advice on what to skip. Read on, then build your days around the ideas that suit you.
Crete is large, varied, and easy to underestimate on a first trip. This guide to the best things to do in Crete covers the ruins, gorges, beaches and old towns worth your time, plus how to fit them together across a week. You will find plain notes on seasons, transport and where
Crete wine tours open a side of the island that the beaches never show: old vineyards, indigenous grapes and family wineries pouring wines you rarely find abroad. This guide walks through the main wine regions, the grapes to look for, and the different tour styles from
A Crete catamaran cruise is the easiest way to reach the beaches and bays that cars never get to, from Balos Lagoon in the west to Dia Island off Heraklion. This guide compares shared, semi-private and private trips, explains what is included on board, and shows how sea conditions and timing change the day. It covers the main departure ports, the best months to sail, and the mistakes that catch first-time visitors. Read it before you book so you pick the right boat, route and time of day.